What you need to know before choosing a therapist

When you decide to take control of your mental and emotional well-being, therapy often has some of the critical answers you are looking for. The journey to good mental health starts with finding the right therapist for the job, whether working on your relationship, your phobias, adjusting to a new phase in life or recovering from trauma. Studies have shown that the bond between a therapist and patient significantly impacts the therapy’s success. Here’s what you need to know before you choose a therapist:

1. Check provider directories

Find out if you can pay for therapy using your insurance plan by checking your plan’s provider directory. Does the plan limit the number of sessions you can attend each year? What will be the cost of an out-of-network therapist? These are important considerations if you need to continue therapy over a period of time.

2. Get a referral

Many people like to go the referral route, asking their family physicians, friends, or colleagues for a trusted reference. A referral can help you narrow down your options. It is important to remember that each person’s needs and goals vary, and you need to find a therapist that works best for your condition, symptoms, and requirements. 

3. Other resources

University psychiatry or psychology departments often know the best resource for your specific needs. Call up the relevant department and ask for recommendations. If you are new to a city, ask your existing therapist for suggestions. For example, if you are looking for a therapist in Vancouver, many online directories in British Columbia can help you zero down. Alternatively, you can also check with professional associations to find out more about a therapist’s area of specialization. If you are embarrassed asking for help, there are plenty of resources online but remember that there should be no stigma attached to seeking help.  

4. Watch credentials carefully

Therapists use several initials after their names, and it is helpful to understand what some of these letters stand for. Here are some of the most common ones:

• L.M.F.T.: Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
• L.C.S.W.: Licensed Clinical Social Worker 
• L.C.D.C.: Licensed Chemical Dependency Counsellor
• L.M.H.C.: Licensed Mental Health Counsellor
• PsyD: Doctor of Psychology
• M.F.C.C.: Marriage, Family, and Child Counsellor

The credentials have their variations based on geography and credentialing system. What is essential here is to ensure that the therapist is a licensed mental health professional who follows a code of ethics. Credentials should also highlight their specialization so that you'd be sure this doctor is for you. The team of professional LGBT therapists at gettherapie.com knows how important it is to talk about your issues with someone who understands and will not judge. Being able to talk to a reliable person who is knowledgeable and experienced can work wonders for your mental health.

5. Ask questions  

Your first session is not very dissimilar to a job interview. You must evaluate the therapist to see how they might fit your world. A majority of therapists offer an introductory session to see patient-therapist alignment. Ask questions about their treatment approach and how they conduct treatment. What is the whole plan? When can you start seeing improvement? How many sessions will the therapy involve? What are your strengths as a therapist? 

6. Consistency is key

Part of successful therapy is consistency. Late, skipping sessions, and not following through can upend your treatment. Make therapy your priority. If things are not working with a particular therapist, don’t give up on your path altogether. Instead, consider your options and make therapy work for you, be it choosing another therapist or discussing it with your current provider.  

7. It’s okay not to like the therapist.

It takes a few sessions with a therapist before deciding if it is the right fit. If you don’t feel comfortable and it doesn’t seem to work out, there is nothing wrong.  

Therapy is highly personal, and each patient deserves a therapist with whom you feel safe to dive deeper into your emotions. If things don’t work with a specific therapist, there is nothing wrong with moving on to another therapist. 

Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming, but it is the first and one of the essential steps in the journey to holistic well-being. Take time before you select and use these tips to help narrow your choices. 

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